The future of Italian tourism

Italy is preparing the restart of tourism: restaurants are opening again, museums and hotels are already open or are working hard to preparing the season and to host the future visitors in a safe way.

Waiting for the EU travel Pass the Italian government decided in the last weeks to cancel the quarantine obligation so people living in other countries can finally travel again to Italy with a vaccine or with a negative Covid Test.

This is a good news.

Last week I was walking in the historical centre of Siena and I could see the first visitors and locals enjoying the spring weather. What a nice feeling! Cities are still alive

But how will be the future of the travel industry ?

There is no doubt. After this pandemic period tourism has to be more RESPONSIBLE, SUSTAINABLE, INCLUSIVE and ACCESSIBLE.

The UNWTO recommendations for the tourism recovery underline the need of a new approach to INCLUSION AND SUSTAINABILITY, LOCAL COMMUNITY AND RESPONSIBILITY.

There is no sustainable future without the inclusion of all people and this concerns not only the tourism sector but all sectors included the financial one.

For this reason the tourism industry, especially the hospitality sector and all other professionals (tourist guides, transports companies, food & beverage professionals), must improve their knowledge about people’s needs with disabilities.

It’s not only a question of eliminating physical barriers in buildings or public/private spaces. It’s more than this. Tourism professionals need new skills to be able to welcome all kind of visitors correctly and to offer them unforgettable and safe holidays:

Seniors, people with visual, physical or cognitive impairments.

VOCATIONAL TRAINING is the key factor for an inclusive and accessible approach and we cannot wait any longer.

Private companies and public administrations together have to invest more time and economical resources in training the staff because this is the only way to become more accessible and competitive on a global market.

The CERPA Italia Onlus, the Italian National Association for the Research and Promotion of Accessibility, has been promoting inclusion at different levels for the last 25 years and works together with the Public and Private sector organizing professional trainings on those issues.

During the last months we have launched new projects with the Municipality of Siena and the Venice Bestguides Association and I’m working on new ones with other colleagues.

My goal is to make Italy a more inclusive and accessible country so that all people can enjoy our beauty and incredible heritage.

Follow me and stay tuned !